TRAM to make Redwood visit

Tuesday

Apr 1, 2014 at 11:14 AM

The annual National Multiple Sclerosis, Upper Midwest Chapter event known as TRAM is scheduled to make a stop in Redwood Falls this summer.

By Troy KrauseEditor

The annual National Multiple Sclerosis, Upper Midwest Chapter event known as TRAM is scheduled to make a stop in Redwood Falls this summer. The biking event that takes riders across the state is being held July 13-18 starting in Pipestone and finishing in Welch Village. According to Anna Kucera, marketing and public relations director for the upper midwest chapter of the MS Society, this year’s ride is 300 miles long. “TRAM is a fundraiser, with the funds collected being used to offer programs and services to families who have been affected by multiple sclerosis,” said Kucera, adding those dollars are also used to fund research that is being conducted to find a way to end MS. In 2013, riders raised $758,000. Kucera said the riders gather July 13 in Pipestone, with the ride starting July 14. Those on the ride are scheduled to arrive in Redwood Falls July 15. “Redwood Falls is one of the towns that has always rolled out the red carpet for TRAM riders, and the riders really appreciate that,” said Kucera.

Kucera said TRAM always wants to allow its riders the chance to see the beautiful scenery that is part of the Redwood Area when it offers the ride in the southern part of the state. TRAM is celebrating a milestone this year, as the 25th annual ride is taking place. Kucera said what makes the event so great is there are people who have been involved with TRAM every year from the event’s beginning. Those who take part in the ride are required to register and pay a fee of $50. Each participant is also required to raise a minimum of $300 for the MS Society. Kucera said those who want to take part can register through the first day of the event, but all necessary paperwork and fundraising must be done in advance of the ride to do TRAM. Cyclists must be at least 12 years old to take part in the ride. Those who are younger than 18 must also have a waiver to be a rider. Additional registration information and tips for fundraising may be found at the MS Society Web site at www.bikemn.national-mssociety.org.